Winter elopements in Maine can be equal parts peaceful as they are adventure. Couples choose Maine in Winter to enjoy an epic location outside of peak tourist season. All is quiet and your free to enjoy the terrain void of others. And maybe your looking for an all inclusive wedding or elopement experience in Maine. One that takes the thought about accommodations, food, and an officiant off your to do list. Tucked into the backcountry of the Western Mountains of Maine these self sustaining cabins are accessible by an extensive trail system. The trails vary in levels of difficulty depending on your activity of choice. These trails provide the perfect location for your winter elopement experience in Maine.
If the idea of an all inclusive elopement package in the Maine wilderness sounds interesting to you look no further then Maine Huts and Trails. Think winter sport adventure, staffed huts, home made food, warm fires, cozy cabins, and private accommodations. They also have hot showers, private toilets, a drying room, games and quiet reading spaces, and a gear shuttle service. The perfect blend of adventure and relaxation to make your Winter Elopement experience in Maine one to remember.
Based in Maine’s Carrabassett Valley these 4 Eco friendly lodges are surrounded by 80 miles of interconnected trails 45+ miles which are groomed in winter. The huts are typically 7 to 12 miles between cabins making for the perfect full day or multi day adventure.
Kate and Josh planned for an overnight experience at Stratton Brook Hut rather then just a day trip. They cross country skied from the Airport parking lot leaving their gear to be shuttled up to the hut. The only thing they had on their backs were the gear they needed. Kate carried her flowers in the backpack to make sure they made it up safely undamaged. We enjoyed about 5 miles of uphill cross country skiing enjoying the views and the light dusting of snow as we went.
Once they got to the hut they enjoyed a hot lunch and then cuddle up with a hot beverage by the fire before getting ready for their ceremony. They got ready in their cabin having shuttled up their dress and suit in their overnight bags. Kate did her own hair and makeup before preparing for her and Josh’s first look. Josh stood outside on the stairs before Kate emerged from their cabin. This was a special intimate moment for them as they choose to have no additional guests at their elopement day just focused solely on each other.
They had a perfect ceremony outside the lodge sharing personal vows to each other. Then following the ceremony they strapped on their skis and went exploring for a bit dressing suit and all. How often do you get to ski in a wedding dress? They got to just play and enjoy and soak in every moment of the experience. Following the fun they changed into their cozy wool knit sweaters and then went back to the lodge to await dinner.
An delicious dinner spread was served with all the trimmings as well as a special cake that the staff made in celebration of their big day. It was truly a special day. After dinner the two cozied by the fire and played games, and talked until they decided to make their way back to their personal cabin. In the morning they had another delicious hot breakfast before they geared up for their next day adventure. This is where I left them but they continued on for another full day and night at the huts.
If you making a pit stop at the hut on your adventure but not staying overnight lunch and beverages of choice both alcoholic and non alcoholic are available for purchase. If you are choosing to stay overnight then you have the choice of self service or all inclusive.
Yes the self service experience is less expensive but it does require that your pack in your own food and gear and cook your own food. The all inclusive experience includes hot lunch either upon arrival or a bagged lunch to go the next day, gourmet dinner and a hot breakfast spread the next morning. Unlimited coffee, tea and water are available at all times. They have a really cute system too where you take a mug and label it and that remains your mug for the duration of your time at the hut.
If you are just going out to use the trail system then you don’t need a reservation or a permit the same does for any day use of the huts. But if you are planning on staying overnight as part of your Maine Elopement or weekend adventure experience then yes reservations are required. You can book over the phone but online booking is available and simple with options to choose between the self service or all inclusive as well as additional add ons such as the gear shuttle.
Which if you are staying overnight or have multiple bags you don’t wish to carry on your person then its a perfect choice. The huts have limited bunk space and usually fill up especially during peak winter season and so booking ahead ensures you have a place. If your coming with a larger group too this makes the most sense. If your planning to have guests join for your winter elopement experience with Maine Huts and Trails the customer service is great and the team can help you make sure your rooms are clustered together and assist with any multi-hut trips if your traveling over multiple days to multiple huts.
Book your overnight stay at Stratton Brook Hut
Stratton Brook Hut ~ Maine Huts & Trails
There are so many trails to choose from with varying level of difficulty. Some that are shorter distances approximately 2-4 miles, minimal elevation gain, flat, wide and well marked trails and terrain. While more moderate and advanced trails might be 5-8 or 7-12 miles with more significant elevation gain and switchbacks. Stratton Brook Hut which is where Kate and Josh ventured to was considered Advanced but Flagstaff Hut is considered more beginner friendly and Poplar Stream is the most popular intermediate hut. All of the huts can be accessed by either cross country skiing, fat tire biking, snowshoeing or hiking. So depending on the activity you choose and your abilities the trail can feel different for everyone.
To check out more about the trails, difficulty level, conditions and available maps check out
The Maine Huts and Trails site provides a really great list of the appropriate gear needed by season
All-Season-Packing-List-compressed.pdf
But in addition to these items if your choosing to Elope at the Hut you might need some more items. Including but not limited to












































If you’re dreaming of an intimate winter elopement in Maine that feels authentic, adventurous, and deeply personal, I’d love to help you create and capture it.
From location scouting to logistical planning I’m here to help. I’m your built in adventure buddy that also will take sick pictures of the BEST DAY of your life.
In a world where many of us are craving connection it’s so important to me that I’m able to spend time with the couples I work with and build those vital relationships. Adventuring together and getting to know your relationship personally also allows me to tell your story on a deeper level. Understanding the photos that will be meaningful and the details that are important to each specific couple.
An elopement with Maine Huts and Trails allows us to do just that. We have plenty of time to hang out and chat on our adventure up to the hut, and then we have plenty of time to hang out during meals, play games, chat or relax outside of the time I am taking photos. Yes you are hiring me to take photos of your elopement but it’s not a photoshoot it’s an experience and I am your photographer, guide and friend.
If this sounds aligned with what your seeking…
Visit me here:
https://mainelyoutdoorsphotography.com
Let’s design a day that feels like you.
About Me
I’m the photographer behind Mainely Outdoors Photography, passionate about helping couples elope in Maine in a way that feels genuine and connected to nature. I believe your wedding day should reflect your relationship not expectations.
Whether you’re planning a coastal sunrise ceremony, a quiet forest vow exchange, or an epic backcountry hut experience I’m here to guide you through the process and preserve your memories with honesty and heart.
It’s so important to me that you feel connection in every part of your day. Connection to each other, connection to the place, and connected to me being given the honor to capture your love story.

